This small town on the Columbia River just upstream from Portland is especially welcoming in the holiday season.

Plumes of steam rise over Camas, Wash., attesting to the tenacity of this mill town northeast of Portland, where Georgia-Pacific creates computer paper and disposable towels—as well as prosperity for a community of 17,000. Shop for a Nino Bossi handbag or a vintage hat, then stroll tree-lined NE Fourth Avenue to sip velvety pinot noir. On December 2, the monthly First Friday takes on a holiday theme with a tree lighting, carols, and bargains for shoppers. Area code is 360.

Families still flock to shows at the renovated 1927 Liberty Theatre, with its Spanish Moorish facade and vintage neon. Admission is $3.50 for all films including classics and current releases. 315 NE Fourth Ave., 859-9555, camasliberty.com.

Wines from the Walla Walla region dominate the racks at K’Syrah. Lunch on curry chicken salad or get familiar with local syrahs, cabernets, and other varieties at Friday tastings. 316 NE Dallas St., 833-9429, bistro.ksyrahcatering.com.